Challenges and strategies in managing small schools: A case study in Perak, Malaysia

Abstract

This research examined leadership practices in the unique context of primary schools with smaller levels of enrolment, specifically small schools in Malaysia. These are schools with an enrolment of up to 150 students that are primarily located in rural areas. This study explored the challenges encountered by experienced head teachers of such schools and, more importantly, identified the strategies head teachers employed to overcome these challenges. This was achieved through a qualitative analysis of interviews conducted with experienced head teachers from five small schools. The findings demonstrate that all five schools faced similar challenges: financial constraints, a dilapidated infrastructure, lack of human resources, and competence-related issues among teachers. All respondents overcame these challenges with creativity and passion. They found alternative methods with which to generate school funds, adopted the role of learner leaders by developing their information and communication technology skills, and served as role models for instructional leadership. The findings will enable policymakers and school leaders, particularly those involved in small schools, to provide quality education for every child. Nevertheless, further studies involving a greater number of respondents are needed to understand the complex challenges involved in managing small schools and the optimal ways of overcoming these.

The Implementation of Personalised Learning to Teach English in Malaysian Low-Enrolment Schools

“…These schools are often located in rural areas or areas with low population density, and they face unique challenges related to funding, staffing, and providing quality education to students. According to a report by the Malaysian government, low-enrolment schools in Malaysia face a range of challenges, including limited funding, difficulty in hiring and retaining qualified teachers, and limited resources for curriculum development and extracurricular activities [22]. These schools may also struggle to provide a diverse range of courses and programs to their students, which can limit their opportunities for academic and career success.…”

The validity and reliability of professional learning community instruments in small schools peninsular Malaysia

“…Several problems and constraints in small schools also contribute to the achievement of performance in small schools. Among the issues faced by small schools are school infrastructure, high teacher turnover, the location of the school, and the diversity of students in the implementation of combined classes, all of which require a high level of preparedness on the part of school administrators [4]. One of the factors of low performance in small schools compared to other schools is teacher efficiency [1].…”

The validity and reliability of culturally responsive leadership practice instruments in small schools peninsular Malaysia

“…Several problems and constraints in small schools also contribute to the achievement of performance in small schools. Among the issues faced by small schools are school infrastructure, high teacher turnover, the location of the school, and the diversity of students in the implementation of combined classes, all of which require a high level of preparedness on the part of school administrators [4]. One of the factors of low performance in small schools compared to other schools is the efficacy of leadership [1].…”